Review: VENUS IN FUR; Raw and Edgy at The Herald Theatre, Aotea Centre Auckland

Auckland Theatre Company's 'Venus in Fur' by David Ives
20 August 2016

Reviewed by: Monica Moore

The audience was buzzing after Auckland Theatre Company's opening night of Venus in Fur, at the Herald Theatre, Aotea Centre.

Rightly so.

Some jumped to their feet at the end of the performance, which left us on a crescendo. Others were still catching up with the myriad of thought-provoking messages that had titillated and intrigued. This was reflected in the clapping that got louder as the realization at what had been witnessed soaked in.

It's sexual and intellectual, mesmerizing, engaging and comedic and 90 minutes of Venus in Fur feels like 5.

The play opens with Thomas, a New York writer and director who is planning to stage his new play, Venus in Furs, based on Leopold von Sacher-Masoch's 19th century erotic novella. At the end of the day's auditions, Thomas laments his failure to find that elusive perfect lead actress.

Cue thunder and lightning: in tumbles Vanda - she's late, and pretty much like all the other young wannabes - vapid, needy and crude. Not what Thomas is looking for but is she what he needs?

Auckland Theatre Company's production is thoroughly 'kiwi' with the creative team of Shane Bosher, Rachael Walker, Elizabeth Whiting, Sean Lynch and Paul McLaney who have collaborated to some produce some well crafted theatre.

Opening on Broadway in 2011 Venus in Fur has been one of the most produced plays in the US in recent times and that is not surprising with its very clever script that challenges our thinking and boundaries within a cocktail of social and historical perspective.

There is the play within the play, levels within levels, perspectives abound, perceptions challenged and ideals are questioned.

Who holds the power? Who is submissive and to what?

Sexual politics, jealousy, conformity, idealism and expectation are stripped bare to the basics of raw desire, satisfaction and emotional need.

The intriguing and demanding plot requires highly skilled talent and Morgana O'Reilly and Craig Hall deliver.

O'Reilly had the audience from the second she entered the stage. She danced with the words taking us on a highly charged emotional, sexual and intellectual journey filled with comedy and tension that aroused, unnerved and totally engaged. She was simply stunning.

Craig played a more understated Thomas grappling for self control in his attempt to mask his inner self; he denied but eventually conceded, succumbing to the persona that he had ironically created as writer-director.

It's funny, it's edgy, it's challenging. You should see it.
What: Venus in Fur
Where & when: Aotea Centre, Herald Theatre, runs until 18th September

Book: http://www.ticketmaster.co.nz/Venus-In-Fur-

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